I met this mama way back when I was in Bradley birth class together with her when pregnant with our first sons. I was lucky enough to document her birth story for her second son and this time, I was able to come back and document the birth of her daughter as well. She lives a couple hours away so when I got the message that she may be having contractions in the morning, I threw my bag in the car and headed up to their cozy home in the redwoods.

When I arrived, the oldest brother was eager to help and happy to see me. The middle guy was playing lego and hanging out in the birth space. Dogs were barking, clearly in the know that something was going on with mama. And, mama was in the birth tub, getting through each surge with such ease and strength. It was a beautiful and peaceful scene, with fairy lights and birth affirmations adorning the walls. The midwives were calm and occasionally checking in on mama in the tub. Dad was being his supportive, amazing self.

Their daughter arrived to this side of the world in the water where mama was able to catch her with a little help from her oldest son. She had the greatest little rolls right from the start. Mama nursed. Kids played. Their oldest son ready to assume his job as big brother (for two). Once cuddled up in bed, they participated in a ritual called cord burning- a warm, welcoming event to separate the baby from the placenta and mother.

Such a beautiful, peaceful birth, full of love, family, strength and connection.

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